Tom Patterson Theatre

The Tom Patterson Theatre’s first incarnation was in 1971, when the Festival opened a new venue (then called The Third Stage) in the winter home of the Stratford Badminton Club.

Originally used to house music programs, workshops and experimental works, the space has been modified over the years and now presents a variety of contemporary and classical works, as well as a variety of fringe activities. The theatre houses a runway-style thrust stage designed by Desmond Heeley in 1983, and audiences and actors alike enjoy the intimacy of the small 496-seat space.

In 1991 the theatre was renamed to honour Tom Patterson, the Festival’s founder.

Food and Beverage

Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are available from the Kiwanis concession stand in the theatre. There is no bar service at the Tom Patterson Theatre.

Accessibility

Entry to all seating (except Special Access in Aisle 6) is by steps leading upward from stage level. Auditorium is steeply inclined and back rows may be challenging to navigate for those with restricted mobility.

The theatre is wheelchair accessible, and a limited number of designated special-access parking spaces are available nearby. The Patterson auditorium is steeply raked; if you require assistance, please ask our Front of House staff. We’re here to help.

Service and Guide dogs are welcome in all our theatres; we ask patrons with service dogs to sit on an aisle or in our special access seating. House Programs are available in Braille and can be borrowed from the House Manager. All theatres are equipped with a wireless hearing assistance system. Please reserve your headsets in advance.

For complete information on all of our accessibility services, click here.

ParkingTom Patterson TheatreFree parking is available adjacent to the theatre and at the Allman Arena.

Special Access ParkingSpecial access parking is available, with a valid permit, in the Festival Theatre's Buick Drive parking lot. Cost: $10. Please come early, as space is limited. The City of Stratford provides a limited number of special access spaces near our other three theatres.

DowntownThe city centre has nearly 800 metered parking spaces, with a maximum stay of three hours. In addition, there are parking lots on Albert, Erie, George, St. Patrick and York streets. All-day free parking is available at the Cooper lot on St. Patrick Street, close to the Avon Theatre.